The Holy Roman Empire

Erin Lawson
The Holy Roman Empire was a large empire that was based in Germany. It ranged from modern-day Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, eastern France, and parts of Italy . This empire was based essentially on the Roman Empire, but Rome wasn't even in its territory. It was an attempt to revive the Western Roman Empire, and it was originated in the eastern half of Charlemagne's empire.


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The Holy Roman Empire territory

Rulers:

The Holy Roman Empire reigned from 800ad, founded by Charlemagne, to 1806ad, dissolved by Emperor Francis II. Officially known as Sacrum Romanum Imperium, the Holy Roman Empire was ruled by elected rulers instead of bloodlines. The founder, Charlemagne was chosen by Pope Leo III to be emperor of the Holy Roman Empire in 800ad.


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Charlemagne, the founder of the Holy Roman Empire

Geography:

The geography of the Holy Roman Empire was extremely useful. They had access to many rivers, seas and oceans, therefore opening up trade. They had access to the Adriatic Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea, making easy transportation. But having many sea ports also let merchants from other places spread the Black Death.

Events:

The Thirty Year War was a very important event. It was started when people thought that there was an unfair balance in political power. It's also believed that it was fought between Protestants and Catholics in the empire. This war had a big impact on the empire, destorying entire regions and lowering populations, mainly in Germany.



MLA citiations



Thirty Years War. Ask.com. 2009. 17 April 2009http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/thirty_years_war.htm

The Holy Roman Empire. François Velde. February 13th 2008. 19 April 2009http://www.heraldica.org/topics/national/hre.htm

Holy Roman Empire. MSN Encarta. 2009. 17 April 2009
http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761558731/holy_roman_empire.html